DOT PHYSICALS

HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR UPCOMING DOT PHYSICAL EXAM

To help ensure your appointment goes smoothly and you leave with your Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) on the same day, please review this preparation checklist carefully. Arriving without the necessary medical documentation can delay your certification.

What You MUST Bring to Your Appointment

Identification: A valid, government-issued photo ID (such as a Driver’s License, CDL, or Passport).
  • Current Medical Card: If you are renewing, please bring your existing DOT medical card.
  • Medication List: A complete list of all your prescription medications, including exact dosages and the names/contact info of your prescribing doctors.
  • Vision & Hearing Aids: If you use glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids while driving, you must bring them. You will be tested using them.

Condition-Specific Requirements (If Applicable)

If you are being treated for any chronic health conditions, the FMCSA requires specific documentation to verify it is safely managed:

Sleep Apnea: Bring a printout of your CPAP compliance report covering at least the past 90 days. The data must show adequate machine usage (typically 4+ hours per night for at least 70% of days).

Diabetes: Bring a copy of your most recent Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) lab results taken within the last 3 months. If you use insulin, ensure you have the required FMCSA Form MCSA-5870 completed by your treating physician.

Heart Conditions (Heart Attack, Stents, Pacemaker, Bypass): Bring a recent clearance letter from your cardiologist stating you are safe to operate a commercial vehicle, alongside a copy of your last stress test or echocardiogram (taken within the past 1–2 years).

Neurological Conditions (Stroke, Seizures, Brain Injury): Bring a comprehensive clearance letter from your neurologist outlining your medical history and verifying that the condition is fully stable.

Monitored Blood Thinners (e.g., Coumadin): Bring a recent copy of your INR blood test results and a clearance letter from your managing physician.

Health Tips for the Morning of Your Exam

The physical exam includes a mandatory blood pressure evaluation and an administrative urinalysis (checking for protein, blood, and sugar—this is not a drug screen). To ensure your vitals pass the required FMCSA limits:

  1. Avoid Stimulants: Do not consume caffeine, energy drinks, or nicotine for at least 4 hours before your test, as these spike your blood pressure.
  2. Take Your Medications: Do not skip your daily blood pressure or heart medications on the morning of your exam. Take them on your normal schedule.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Drink normal amounts of water before your appointment. Do not empty your bladder right before checking in, as you will need to provide a fresh urine sample.
  4. Arrive Early: Give yourself 15 minutes to sit quietly and relax before your vitals are taken to help ensure an accurate, resting blood pressure reading.



 




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